Chevrolet Beat Diesel PS review

Chevrolet India, the fully owned subsidiary of the General Motors has officially launched the 2014 Chevrolet Beat at the Indian Auto Expo 2014. This small car is perhaps the best selling four wheeler in the hatchback segment and now it comes with an all new design features. The company introduced this latest version with four petrol and four diesel variant options. The Chevrolet Beat Diesel PS is the entry level diesel variant and it comes with pretty standard features. Powering this particular trim is the 3-cylinder, 1.0-litre XSDE diesel power plant that comes with an ability to produce a peak mileage of 25.44 Kmpl. Despite being the compact sized hatch, it comes with decent cabin space with seating capacity for five passengers. This 2014 version of Chevrolet Beat comes with improved exteriors such as revamped bumper, elegantly structured headlight cluster and stylishly designed dual port radiator grille that brings a bold stature to the front facade. The company also made quite a few tweaks to the interiors and gave a close finish to the cabin for improving the ambiance.

Exteriors:

The newly introduced Chevrolet Beat is a compact hatchback equipped with modern exteriors. The company has not made any changes to the body structure of this vehicle, but made few tweaks to its cosmetics. The design of the dual port front radiator grille gets a minor modification and it is decorated with the gold plated company logo. The bonnet on top has the same design as the outgoing version and it is surrounded by a large headlight cluster. The company also made changes to the front bumper with a redesigned air dam and given it a diffuser sort of design. The rear profile of this hatch gets jewel effect tail lamps that brings a gorgeous look to the rear profile. In addition to this, the company has fitted a two tone bumper at the rear that gives it a sporty look. The rest of the design of this variant remains to be the same as the outgoing trim. The wheel arches at the side are neatly carved along with black colored door handles and external rear view mirrors as well. The manufacturer is offering this hatch model in a total of eight color shades such as Super Red, Cocktail Green, Linen Beige, Misty Lake, Switch Blade Silver, Sandrift Grey, Caviar Black and Summit White.

Interiors:

The interiors of this Chevrolet Beat Diesel PS trim comes with all black color scheme that brings plushness to the cabin. The company has fitted comfortable seats inside the cabin and covered them with semi-fabric type upholstery. The steering wheel comes with three spokes and it is decorated with a large company insignia. The company has equipped quite a few features inside the cabin such as digital tachometer, accessory power outlets, digital tripmeter and a number of other utility features. For the convenience of the front passengers, this trim has cup holders in the front central console and map pockets in the front doors. In addition to these, features like remote tailgate opener , remote fuel lid opener, door ajar warning and low fuel warning lamp are also added to this variant. This model comes with a wheelbase of 2375mm that helps in creating a decent leg space for the rear occupants.

Engine and Performance:

This Chevrolet Beat Diesel PS trim sports a 3-cylinder, in-line, 1.0-litre XSDE engine with a displacement capacity of about 936cc . This diesel engine is based on the Dual Over-Head camshaft (DOHC) valve configuration and comes incorporated with a multi-point fuel injection system. It will allow the motor to produce a maximum power output of 57.6Bhp at 4000rpm, while generating a peak torque output of about 150Nm at just 1750rpm. This torque output is distributed to the front wheels of the hatch via a 5-speed manual transmission gearbox. This diesel mill can return a maximum mileage of 25.44 Kmpl, which is quite impressive.

Braking and Handling

This newly introduced hatchback is being offered with a robust suspension and a proficient braking system. The front axle gets McPherson Strut, while the rear is equipped with a compound crank type of mechanism. This system will provide a comfortable driving experience to the occupants, while dealing with all the jerks caused on roads. On the other hand, it is blessed with front disc brakes and rear drum brakes that ensures precise stopping of the vehicle, even on wet road conditions. In a bid to reinforce the handling aspects, the company has equipped this particular trim with a power assisted steering system that offers a crisp response and reduces the efforts of the driver, while maneuvering in heavy traffic.

Comfort Features:

This Chevrolet Beat Diesel PS is the base version in its model series and it is being offered with a very limited set of comfort features. Inside the cabin, it is equipped with an HVAC system that keeps the cabin cool and pleasant. Also, it comes with internally adjustable external rear view mirrors that adds to the convenience of the driver. The rear cabin of this hatch comes with a folding option that will be helpful in improving the luggage storage space. In addition to these, the company has also equipped remote fuel lid and tailgate openers that enhances the level of convenience. The cockpit is equipped with an elegantly structured instrument panel that features a digital tachometer, tripmeter, low fuel warning and door ajar warning notifications. Apart from all these, this particular trim also comes with a power steering system , dual horn and battery saver function as well.

Safety Features:

This base variant is offered with few safety features unlike the rest of the variants in this model line up. The company has equipped this particular trim with height adjustable front headrests and with driver seat belt reminder lamp, that works as the safety features. On the other hand, its steel wheels have been covered with tubeless radial tyres that can tackle rough roads.